Matthew 5:17-20 presents a pivotal passage often misunderstood. It's a cornerstone of Christian theology, dealing with the relationship between the Old Testament Law and the teachings of Jesus. This sermon explores the complexities of this passage, examining its meaning and its enduring relevance for believers today.
Understanding the Context: Jesus and the Law
Before diving into verses 17-20, it's crucial to understand the broader context of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus isn't rejecting the Law; rather, he's clarifying and fulfilling it. He's not abolishing the moral principles embedded within the Old Testament but revealing their deeper meaning and application. This passage acts as a bridge, connecting the old covenant with the new.
Matthew 5:17-20: A Detailed Examination
Let's analyze the verses themselves:
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
Key Points:
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"Fulfill": This isn't about simply obeying the letter of the law. Jesus's fulfillment involves a deeper, more profound understanding of God's will. He reveals the spirit behind the law, the underlying principles of love, justice, and mercy.
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"Not an iota, not a dot": This emphasizes the enduring importance of God's moral principles. The Law remains a vital guide for ethical behavior. Jesus isn't dismissing its significance; he's reinforcing it.
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"Least" and "Great": This highlights the importance of both obedience and teaching. True discipleship involves not only personal obedience but also actively sharing the principles of the Law with others. This points to the vital role of discipleship and teaching in the Kingdom of God.
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The Danger of Minimizing the Law: The passage cautions against minimizing even the smallest commandments. This suggests that all aspects of God's law are significant, reflecting His holistic and comprehensive will for humanity.
The Fulfillment of the Law in Christ
The "fulfillment" of the Law is ultimately found in Jesus Christ himself. He perfectly embodied the spirit of the Law, fulfilling its righteous demands in his life and ultimately atoning for its violation through his sacrifice on the cross. This means:
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The Law's Righteous Demands Met: Jesus's perfect life and death satisfy the demands of the Law, removing the condemnation that hangs over humanity.
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The Spirit of the Law Embodied: Jesus's life demonstrates the true meaning of loving God and neighbor. His actions provide a living example of how the Law should be lived out.
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A New Covenant: Through faith in Christ, believers receive the gift of God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to live according to God's will.
Practical Application Today
How does this passage apply to our lives today?
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Understanding the Heart of the Law: We must strive to understand not just the letter of the law, but the heart of the law—the love and justice that motivate it.
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Living Out the Principles: We must seek to live out the principles of love, justice, and mercy in our daily interactions.
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Teaching and Discipleship: We are called to teach others about the principles of God's law, embodying them in our actions and sharing them with those around us.
Conclusion: A Call to Deeper Obedience
Matthew 5:17-20 is not a license for moral relativism but a call to deeper obedience, a commitment to live out the spirit of the Law in all aspects of our lives. By understanding the fulfillment of the law in Christ and striving to live according to its principles, we can truly become "great in the kingdom of heaven." This requires a commitment to ongoing learning, self-reflection, and a dependence on the grace and power of God.
